Research Methods: Standardized Questionnaire

1. Rapport (agreement)

• Research results are as valid as the relationship between interviewer and respondent is open and non-defensive. Rapport can be established by introducing oneself and the purpose of the interview clearly, honestly, realistically, and without threatening the respondents. Start the questionnaire with questions that request positive answers to achieve friendly atmosphere.

2. Conditioning

• Early questions can influence the way respondents answer later ones. A good rule to follow is to go from general to specific questions.

3. Fatigue

• Respondents get tired after half an hour or so.

• To maximize information and minimize fatigue, try to group questions relating to a topic

• Avoid confusing respondents with irrelevant questions.

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